Name: Cranberry Hand Pies (with Leftover Cranberry Sauce)
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Pie Dough Sheets (2 sheets, 10×12 inches each); Leftover Cranberry Sauce (¾ cup); Egg (1, beaten); Granulated Sugar (2 tablespoons)

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Picture this: the kitchen filled with the warm aroma of baked pastries, a gentle hint of cinnamon lingering in the air, and the anticipation of biting into a flaky crust that reveals a delightful burst of tart cranberry goodness. These Cranberry Hand Pies (with Leftover Cranberry Sauce) not only evoke the coziness of the holiday season, but they also make use of any leftover cranberry sauce you might have lingering in your fridge. The vibrant color of the crimson filling peeks through the golden crust, making them as much a feast for the eyes as they are for the taste buds.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Cranberry Hand Pies (with Leftover Cranberry Sauce)
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Cranberry Hand Pies (with Leftover Cranberry Sauce)

Cranberry Hand Pies (with Leftover Cranberry Sauce)

I fondly remember the sweet moments spent in my grandmother’s kitchen, where the joy of baking was often paired with laughter and the simple pleasure of making something delicious from what we had on hand. These pies bring that nostalgic warmth back to my heart, reminding me that food has the power to create lasting memories and shared experiences. Whether you are planning a holiday gathering, a cozy brunch, or just craving a sweet treat, these hand pies are perfect for any occasion. Excited to make a batch? Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Ready in about 45 minutes, these hand pies are a breeze to whip up!
Irresistible Flavor: The sweet and tart cranberry filling wrapped in buttery flaky crust offers a delightful balance that’s hard to resist.
Eye-Catching Appeal: Cute, portable, and perfectly golden — they’re bound to impress anyone who sees (and tastes) them!
Flexible Serving: Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or as a dessert at your next gathering.
Diet-Friendly Options: You can easily make these gluten-free by using alternative pie crusts!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Pie Dough Sheets (2 sheets, 10×12 inches each): You can use store-bought or homemade; the butteriness and flakiness play a crucial role in the texture.
Leftover Cranberry Sauce (¾ cup): This is not just a way to minimize waste but also an incredible flavor base. Homemade has a freshness that elevates the taste, but store-bought works just as well!
Egg (1, beaten): This serves as an egg wash to give the hand pies a beautiful golden sheen.
Granulated Sugar (2 tablespoons): A sprinkle on top adds just the right amount of sweetness and texture.

How to Make Cranberry Hand Pies (with Leftover Cranberry Sauce)

Prepping the Dough: Start by placing one pie dough sheet on a lightly floured surface. Use a 3.5-inch round cookie cutter (or the rim of a can) to create 10 to 12 circles, ensuring to keep spacing even for uniformity. You’ll repeat this process with the second dough sheet for the tops, re-rolling any scraps to maximize your yield.

Brush & Fill: Gently brush the edges of each bottom circle with the beaten egg wash; this will help create a nice seal. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of cranberry sauce onto the center of each dough circle. Don’t overfill — you’ll want to make sure the filling stays neatly enclosed.

Seal It Up: Carefully place the remaining dough circles on top. Use a fork to crimp the edges well all around, ensuring your filling doesn’t escape during baking. To let steam escape, cut a tiny slit or an X shape on the top of each pie, and then give them a light brush with egg wash and a generous sprinkle of sugar for extra sparkle.

Chill Before Baking: Arrange your assembled hand pies on a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Pop them in the fridge for 15 to 20 minutes to chill. This helps reinforce that flaky texture we all love while preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Bake & Enjoy: Once the oven is heated, place the hand pies in for 20 to 25 minutes. Watch for the crusts to turn golden brown; it’s hard to resist peeking through that oven door when your kitchen fills with their delightful aroma! Let them cool slightly before serving, and enjoy them warm or at room temperature.

Storing & Reheating

These hand pies can be stored at room temperature for up to two days in an airtight container. If you prefer refrigerating them, they’ll stay fresh for about a week. For longer storage, freeze them for up to three months. Make sure to wrap them well with plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 to 15 minutes for a yummy crispness, though be mindful that refrigeration can slightly compromise their flaky texture.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Don’t overfill the hand pies; leaving space around the edges ensures a good seal and prevents leaks.
If using homemade pie dough, make sure it’s chilled before rolling out; cold dough holds its shape better.
To get golden crusts, use egg wash sparingly to avoid any sogginess.
If you’re short on time, store-bought pie crusts work wonderfully; just roll out and cut as directed.
Consider adding spices to your cranberry filling, like cinnamon or nutmeg, for an extra flavor twist.
These pies can also be made ahead of time; just bake, cool, and freeze before your gathering, warming them before serving.

These Cranberry Hand Pies (with Leftover Cranberry Sauce) are such a delightful treat to savor, whether at a festive gathering or a quiet afternoon snack at home. With just a few simple ingredients and a little bit of time, you can create something that brings joy to your table. Feel free to experiment with other fruit fillings as well, expanding your hand pie horizons. Happy baking!

Recipe FAQs

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of leftover cranberry sauce?

Absolutely! If you don’t have leftover sauce, you can make a quick filling with fresh cranberries by simmering them with sugar and a splash of water until they burst. Cool the mixture before using it to fill your pies.

How can I make these hand pies savory?

You can easily swap out the cranberry sauce for a savory filling, such as cream cheese and herbs or roasted vegetables. Just ensure you adjust the sweetness and season to your preference, and follow the same method for assembly and baking!

Can I freeze unbaked hand pies?

Yes! You can freeze unbaked hand pies. Assemble them as directed, then place them on a baking sheet in the freezer until solid. Transfer them to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to three months. Bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to cook time.

What’s the best way to serve these hand pies?

These hand pies are delicious served warm or at room temperature. They pair beautifully with a simple dusting of powdered sugar or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a sweet treat. Enjoy them with a warm cup of tea or coffee for the perfect cozy experience.

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